How to Clean Leaf Marks From Cement

Leaf piles that remain on concrete can create stubborn stains.

Cement is an ingredient in the concrete used to create driveways, walkways and patio surfaces. Leaf marks on concrete are not permanent, but they can be difficult to remove. The same organic substances that create color in the leaves can stain a concrete surface. Fresh stains are easier to remove than older stains. Powdered detergents that contain bleaching agents have abrasive, stain-removing qualities that effectively clean concrete surfaces, according to Concrete Network. Check labels to find cleaning products that remove organic stains, such as food, blood and plant materials.

1

Wear old clothes with long sleeves and long pants to avoid damaging good clothes with beach. Place a tarp over nearby plants to protect them from bleach damage. Test the cleaner on a small, inconspicuous area of the concrete before you apply the cleaner to the stain.

2

Wash leaf debris from the concrete with a power washer. Apply powdered dishwasher detergent to the stain while the concrete is still damp. Let the detergent set for a few minutes.

3

Scrub the stain with a stiff non-metal brush. Rinse all the soap off the concrete with the power washer. Add more detergent and repeat the cleaning and rinsing process if the stain is still there.

4

Mix 1 cup of bleach with 2 gallons of water in a bucket to remove stubborn leaf marks. Apply the mixture to the concrete and let it sit without drying for five minutes. Scrub the stain vigorously with the brush and rinse off the bleach mixture with a power washer. To avoid conspicuous bleached areas, clean the entire concrete surface instead of spot-cleaning the stain.

5

Clean older, stubborn stains with a stain remover formulated to treat organic stains. Apply the cleaner to the damp stain and let it sit for 24 to 48 hours, according to label directions. Rinse off the stain remover with a power washer.

Things You Will Need

Tarp

Power washer

Powdered dishwasher detergent

Non-metal scrub brush

1 cup bleach

2-gallon bucket

Organic stain remover

Tip

Remove leaves from concrete surfaces as soon as possible to avoid leaf marks.

About the Author

Judith Evans has been writing professionally since 2009, specializing in gardening and fitness articles. An avid gardener, Evans has a Bachelor of Arts in political science from the University of New Hampshire, a Juris Doctor from Vermont Law School, and a personal trainer certificate from American Fitness Professionals and Associates.